Soak red chilies in hot water for 10 minutes. Drain. Place
red chilies in a food processor. Add a little water and grind to a smooth paste. Add tomato paste. Grind again. Set aside.
Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
Add ginger, garlic and shallots. Saute, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until the onions are browned.
Add chili paste. Stir to combine. Cook, stirring occasionally,
for 5 minutes. Add water if needed.
Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup (tomato paste) and
ground black pepper. Stir to combine. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Remove from heat. Cool down completely.
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for 2
weeks.